As we settle into the 2025–2026 academic year, I am pleased to report that the school year is off to a smooth and positive start across all of our Cassville R-IV campuses.

Students and staff have quickly settled into their routines, and the energy in our classrooms, hallways, and activity spaces is filled with excitement for the months ahead.

One of the most significant changes this year has been the implementation of Senate Bill 68, which restricts the use of cell phones and electronic devices for all Missouri students during the school day. While this change required some adjustment, I am proud to share how remarkably well our students have embraced this new reality.

Without the constant presence of phones, students are engaging with one another more authentically. Teachers and administrators report that conversations are more meaningful, with students looking one another in the eyes and actively listening. Many of our students have expressed that they feel less distracted, less stressed and more present during the school day.

We commend our students for recognizing the positive benefits of disconnecting from their devices, and we are deeply grateful to the parents and guardians who have supported this change. Your partnership has been vital in helping our young people see that this is an opportunity — not a punishment — for stronger connections and deeper focus.

Every building in our district is experiencing encouraging momentum. Recent news coverage has highlighted the many benefits of our new Performing Arts Center. This addition is already enriching our fine arts programming, creating opportunities for student growth and community engagement.

Construction continues on our Wild C Research Farm, which will soon provide a hands-on learning environment for our Agriculture students. This unique facility will enhance career pathways and connect classroom learning to realworld application. From classrooms to competitions, our students continue to demonstrate excellence.

We commend our sponsors, coaches, and faculty for their leadership, and we celebrate the determination and achievements of our students.

This fall, our Capital Projects Committee will begin developing an updated capital projects plan to be included in next spring’s Continuous School Improvement Plan (CSIP). As part of this work, we will also draft a priorities list to consider for a potential future initiative, most likely in April 2027.

I encourage anyone interested in sharing thoughts or ideas about ways to improve our district to be part of the CSIP process. Your input helps ensure that our planning reflects the values and needs of our entire community.

On behalf of our Board of Education, administration, faculty, and staff, I want to sincerely thank our parents, patrons, and local businesses for their unwavering support of our students and our district goals. Your involvement, whether through cheering at a game, attending a performance, supporting a fundraiser or simply encouraging our young people…makes a difference every single day.

I am excited about the opportunities ahead of us this year. I have great confidence in our students, our staff, and our community to continue working together in pursuit of excellence.

Merlyn Johnson is the superintendent of the Cassville school district.

He may be reached at mjohnson@cassville.k12. mo.us.